Work cases
A work case is a short story with three to five decisions in a row. Each decision follows from the last, and each uses an idea from the strategy lessons, such as looking at three options, counting it through or judging decisions and not results. Ideas carry over best when you use them on problems like your own, so these give you that practice. No game is needed. Your answers come back for review with your other questions.
For students
The group project
4 decisions · uses Plan long-term, Cooperate or defend, Keep a cool head
Four students, six weeks and one report. Plan the work, deal with a missed deadline, choose what to cut, and look back calmly.
The quiz night
4 decisions · uses Weigh odds, Value and bid, Be unpredictable, Read hidden information
You run your college quiz society's big night. Bid for the hall, plan the numbers, keep the rounds fresh, and find out what worked.
Starting out at work
Your first job
4 decisions · uses Think ahead, Keep a cool head, Cooperate or defend, Weigh odds
Your first months as a junior analyst: where to spend your time, a report with a problem, a colleague who keeps asking, and your first estimate.
Running a team
Hiring a designer
4 decisions · uses Read hidden information, Value and bid, Plan long-term, Keep a cool head
You lead a team and need a designer. Check a strong candidate, agree her pay, set her first goals, and judge a slow start.
The rushed website
4 decisions · uses Calculate, Think ahead, Size the risk, Bluff and model opponents
A big client wants a website sooner than your team can easily make it. Count the cost, guard against late changes, protect your lead, and weigh a claim about price.
Running a business
The café's coffee beans
4 decisions · uses Size the risk, Calculate, Think ahead
A roaster raises its price, a rival cuts theirs, and a new supplier offers a contract. Four decisions for someone who runs a small business.